Young people from China, ASEAN gather for science event in Nanning

Hundreds of young people from China and Southeast Asia gathered in south China on Sept. 15 for the 2025 China-ASEAN Science Popularization Night, exploring artificial intelligence applications and strengthening regional science cooperation.

The event, held at Guangxi Minzu University in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, showcased cutting-edge achievements and collaborative progress between China and ASEAN countries in AI.

Performers present a show during the 2025 China-ASEAN Science Popularization Night at Guangxi Minzu University in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 15, 2025. (Photo courtesy of the organizer of the event)

The AI science popularization exhibition area allowed participants to experience intelligent robots, satellite remote sensing, health monitoring, agricultural technology and marine exploration applications.

"It's like opening the door to a new world," said a Laotian student studying in China after controlling an underwater robot to perform precision tasks. Interactive exhibits featuring smart wearable devices and health detection technology drew long lines of visitors.

The event also featured technology integrated with ASEAN cultural themes in a cross-border audiovisual feast. Robotic arms and drones danced alongside human performers, while Chinese and Thai science educators collaborated for the first time on a joint presentation. Science dramas and experimental demonstrations engaged audiences through creative, interactive displays.

Kittapard Yala, a science educator from Thailand's National Science Museum, said the enjoyable and creative collaboration is tremendously beneficial. He expressed hope for more such cross-national science communication exchanges in the future.

The event showcased AI technologies and applications while deepening Southeast Asian youth's understanding of cutting-edge technology, promoting cooperation between China and ASEAN countries in science education and strengthening regional collaborative innovation.

Nearly 500 guests attended the event, including officials from China's Ministry of Science and Technology, representatives from the consulates general of ASEAN countries in Nanning, young scientists from Southeast Asian nations, faculty and students from Belt and Road partner countries, university scholars and ASEAN students studying in China.